Level 1 Diploma in Land-Based Studies (Animal Care)
About The Course
Please be aware that there is now a waiting list for our Level 1 Diploma in Land-based Studies (Animal Care) course for 2021/22. Applications will still be accepted and placed onto a waiting list from those applicants who meet the entry criteria for the qualification (see below) and have fully completed an application form. However, interviews/offers will not take place until a later date. If you have any queries, please email: enquiries@bca.ac.uk
This course is an ideal introduction to working with animals for school leavers who are seeking to explore this diverse industry; develop practical skills in animal husbandry and gain underpinning knowledge of animal-related topics.
Students will work with a range of animals inclusive of small mammals, farm livestock and exotic species housed in our extensive animal collection. This course also provides an opportunity for students to develop practical employability skills through the completion of industry placement on our Animal Education Centre and through external industry placement.
As part of this study programme students are required to study GCSE maths and English if a grade 4 has not already been achieved. This is an essential part of the programme in order for students to develop the literacy and numeracy skills required for successful entry into employment and/or progression onto future courses. There is also an opportunity to study GCSE Biology as part of the study programme in order to develop scientific skills and knowledge. This is essential for any learners interested in progressing to a Level 2 course in Animal Management and who haven’t already achieved a grade 4 or above in science.
Entry Requirements
Four GCSEs at a grade 2, or above, in English, maths and science. Applicants must also complete a successful interview.
More information
This course can lead to employment within retail e.g. pet stores
- Kennels and catteries
- Farm parks & farms
- Pet sitting/dog walking services
- Dog Groomers
Students can also progress (subject to meeting specified entry requirements) on to other courses such as Level 2 Diploma in Animal Management, Agriculture, Horticulture or Protective Services.
Examples of modules studied include:
- Health and Wellbeing of Animals
- Animals in the Wild and Society
- Feeding and Watering Animals
- Development of Performance in the Work-Place
- Assisting with Animal Movement, Handling and Accommodation
GCSE maths & English and Biology
Working in the animal industry can be highly rewarding but it requires hard work and dedication. You will need to be comfortable with working outdoors in all weathers, be physically fit and be able to carry out routine husbandry tasks e.g. checking livestock out on our 400-acre estate, dog walking, cleaning out enclosures.
We have a strict dress code for working in our Animal Centre and, as such, you need to be prepared to follow instructions from all staff in order to maintain your own health, safety and welfare and that of our animals.
If you have a learning difficulty or disability or additional educational need, please let us know when you apply so that we can fully assess for any support you may require.
You may be required to make set contributions towards educational trips and/or travel expenses to local events.
- Level 1 Diploma in Land-Based Studies (Animal Care)
- GCSE maths and English
- GCSE Biology
Assessment takes place through the completion of work/logbooks, diary writing to record progress during professional development lessons, online tests, exams and homework.
You will complete 2 hours of industry placement every week at our Animal Centre and 1 week of industry placement externally.
City & Guilds
